Sharifa‍‍‍‍`s Tale: BRACU explains dismissal of Asif Mahtab

Asif Mahtab, a teacher of BRAC University, was fired after tearing out the pages of the class 7 History and Social Science book  which included the tale of Sharifa. Until now there was no official explanation from BRAC University of his termination on January 20.

A press release sent by BRAC University‍‍`s public relations department on Monday morning (January 29) clarified the matter of Mahtab‍‍`s dismissal.

Fatius Fahmid, deputy manager of the Office of Communications of BRAC University, said in a statement that, like all higher education institutions, BRAC University believes in constructive discussion, debate and mutual exchange based on tolerance and respect for all opinions and ideals.

It said the destruction of national resources through harmful acts is completely unacceptable conduct, and BRAC University does not condone it. BRAC University deems the recent incident of Asif Mahtab tearing out pages from a Class VII National Textbook and encouraging others to do the same in a public forum as vandalism. Such behavior is completely unacceptable.

Because of this, BRAC University has decided not to offer a new contract to Asif Mahtab as a part-time teacher for the spring semester of 2024. However, the University will remunerate Mahtab for his time and effort in preparation for this semester.

The press release also said that BRAC University respects the constitution and laws of the country in all respects and is committed to complying with the prevailing regulations of the country. Therefore, the allegations made by some quarters on social media that BRAC University is associated with the promotion and spread of homosexuality are completely baseless. BRAC University believes in creating equal opportunities for every human being to develop equal rights and potential.

Notebly, on January 19 at the Institution of Diploma Engineers, Bangladesh in the capital,   Asif Mahtab protested the inclusion of "transgender stories" in the textbook while addressing a seminar titled "New Textbook in Current Curriculum: Reality and Future".